Clayton Kershaw, Tony Gonsolin, Evan Phillips, and Michael Kopech among the seven players placed on the 15 day IL on Monday, in addition to two more on the 60-day IL

Earlier in spring training, the Mets lost starters Frankie Montas (strained lat) and Sean Manaea (strained oblique) to season-opening injuries. Manager Carlos Blackburn recently told reporters he expected Blackburn to begin the season in the bullpen. Instead, he'll begin the season on the injured list.

At 37 years old and entering the twilight days, Kershaw is probably itching to return and reach that milestone strikeouts number. However, considering the team’s embarrassment of riches in the rotation and bullpen, there will not be the typical reliance upon Kershaw’s services.